Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New Jersey

Roomate trouble?

One of three roomates left because of unknow reasons. The roomnate now refusses to pay rent because the roomate recieved a eviction notice via email. The eviction notice was not certified and a court date was never set. Does the roomate have right to refuse to pay rent? Also, is there someone we could talk to that is free or inexpensive such as a public lawyer?


Asked on 1/12/09, 6:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Tina Amodeo Law Office of Tina Nielsen Amodeo, LLC

Re: Roomate trouble?

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Answer:

Eviction notices are served on each tenant by the sheriff or court officer of the county where the property is. Notice isn't sent by certified mail or email. All tenants should receive a yellow card in the mail directly from the court setting a court date. If you a tenant, you need to call the Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part, in the county where the property is and ask them if there is a court date set. You can call the legal services office in your county and they may be able to help you if you qualify as far as income goes. There is no defense to not paying rent if you are on the lease unless the property is not habitable. HOpe this helps.

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Answered on 1/13/09, 1:53 pm


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